Ornamental-flame burner

ABSTRACT

A burner includes a plurality of end nipples and at least one jet supported by and protruding outwardly from each end nipple. The end nipples and the jets are brass. Each end nipple includes a first end that is threaded and a second end that is closed. Each end nipple includes a wall extending from the first end to the second end and including a bore extending through the first end to the second end. Each end nipple includes a threaded hole extending through the wall to the bore. The first end of the end nipple, the second end of the end nipple, and the wall of the end nipple are unitary. Each jet includes a threaded portion threadedly engaged with the threaded hole and a fuel combustion outlet spaced from the threaded portion. Each jet includes a barrel extending from the fuel combustion outlet toward the threaded portion. The barrel has a larger outer diameter than the threaded portion.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a Patent Cooperation Treaty Application that claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/987,535, filed on Mar. 10, 2020, which is herein incorporated by reference in its entirety.

BACKGROUND

An ornamental-flame burner generates a flame that is ornamental for the purpose of viewing. As examples, the burner may be used in a fire pit, fireplace, flame and water feature, etc. During operation of the burner, the flame is visible and the burner may be exposed or may be covered, entirely or partly, by an aggregate substrate (e.g., rock, stone, glass, etc.), faux logs (e.g., ceramic, steel, etc.), water, etc.

In operation, it is desirable to generate a flame that is tall with a natural appearance similar to the appearance of flames of burning logs. Some burners generate short flames that are spaced from each other, thus having a non-natural appearance. These short flames may also be at least partly blue in color, which also deviates from the appearance of a natural fire. In addition, some burners are manufactured from materials that are aesthetically unappealing at initial installation and are subject to corrosion. One such example is black steel pipe.

Other materials may have the benefit of better aesthetic appeal at installation and are resistant to corrosion. However, burners made of such materials are more costly to produce due to higher material cost, higher design and engineering cost, and higher manufacturing costs. Accordingly, it is desirable to design an ornamental-flame burner that maximizes the height and aesthetically pleasing appearance of the flame while reducing the cost to build by minimizing the amount of material used in manufacturing and assembly.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of one example of a burner including a plurality of intermediate nipples, end nipples, and jets.

FIG. 2A is a side view of one intermediate nipple.

FIG. 2B is a front view of the intermediate nipple of FIG. 2A.

FIG. 2C is a cross-sectional view of the intermediate nipple along line 2 in FIG. 2B.

FIG. 3A is a side view of one end nipple.

FIG. 3B is a front view of the end nipple of FIG. 3A.

FIG. 3C is a cross-sectional view of the end nipple along line 3 in FIG. 3B.

FIG. 4A is a perspective view of one embodiment of the jet including a threaded portion and a barrel having a larger outer diameter than the threaded portion.

FIG. 4B is a top view of the jet of FIG. 4A.

FIG. 4C is a cross-sectional view of the jet of FIG. 4A along line 4C.

FIG. 5A is a perspective view of another embodiment of the jet including a threaded portion and a barrel having a same outer diameter as the threaded portion.

FIG. 5B is a top view of the jet of FIG. 5A.

FIG. 5C is a cross-sectional view of the jet of FIG. 5A along line 5C.

FIG. 6A is a cross-sectional view along line 6 in FIG. 1 of the jet including the barrel having a larger outer diameter than the threaded portion.

FIG. 6A is a cross-sectional view along line 6 in FIG. 1 of the jet including the barrel having a same outer diameter as the threaded portion.

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of another example of the burner.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION Introduction

With reference to the Figures, wherein like numerals indicate like parts throughout the several views, a burner 10 includes a plurality of end nipples 12 and at least one jet 14 supported by and protruding outwardly from each end nipple 12. The end nipples 12 and the jets 14 are brass. Each end nipple 12 includes a first end 16 that is threaded and a second end 18 that is closed. Each end nipple 12 includes a wall 20 extending from the first end 16 to the second end 18 and defines a bore 22 extending through the first end 16 to the second end 18. Each end nipple 12 includes a threaded hole 24 extending through the wall 20 to the bore 22. The first end 16 of the end nipple 12, the second end 18 of the end nipple 12, and the wall 20 of the end nipple 12 are unitary. Each jet 14 includes a threaded portion 26 threadedly engaged with the threaded hole 24 and a fuel combustion outlet 28 spaced from the threaded portion 26.

The burner 10 generates a flame that is ornamental for the purpose of viewing. In other words, the burner 10 is an ornamental-flame burner. As examples, the burner 10 may be used in a fire pit, fireplace, water feature, etc. In use, the flame is visible and the burner 10 may be exposed or may be covered, entirely or partly, by an aggregate substrate (e.g., rock, stone, glass, etc.), faux logs (e.g., ceramic, steel, etc.), water, etc.

The burner 10 is configured, as described further below, to generate an ornamental flame that is at least partly yellow and/or orange. In the examples shown in the figures, the burner 10 is configured to generate a flame that is all yellow and/or orange, i.e., from the point of combustion at the jet 14 to a tip of the flame distal to the jet 14. Specifically, the burner 10 is configured to discharge the fuel from the jet 14 at an air-to-fuel ratio to generate a flame that is yellow and/or orange. The burner 10 is configured to burn a fuel-rich combustion mixture at an air-to-fuel ratio to generate the yellow color. Specifically, the fuel-rich combustion mixture generates the yellow and/or orange flame in contrast with a fuel-lean combustion mixture that generates a blue flame. The jet 14 may generate a Venturi effect to mix air with the fuel to feed an air-to-fuel ratio at the point of combustion to generate a flame that is yellow and/or orange. For natural gas and propane, for example, the burner 10 may be configured to burn at approximately 1000-1200° C. to generate the yellow and/or orange color of the flame.

The burner 10 is configured to generate a tall, dancing flame. This is generated, in part, by the flow rate of fuel to the jet 14 and the Venturi effect generated by the jet 14 to discharge the air-fuel combination at a high velocity. In addition, each jet 14 generates a flame and each flame from each jet 14 dances. In other words, the jets 14 are configured to discharge the air/fuel mixture such that the flame fluctuates in width and height during a stable fuel supply rate at an inlet coupling 34. The flames from the individual jets 14 intermingle and/or combine. In some examples, the flames combine together by swirling based on the aim of the jets 14 relative to each other. The flames from all of the jets 14, in combination, dance. The burner 10 described herein may operate, for example, at 60,000-450,000 BTU. For example, the burner 10 in FIG. 1 may operate at 100,000 BTU and the burner 10 in FIG. 7 may operate at 160,000 BTU. The jets 14 shown in FIGS. 4A-C and 5A-C, for example, may each operate at 10,000 BTU.

The burner 10 includes a plurality of intermediate nipples 32, as discussed further below. The end nipples 12, intermediate nipples 32, and jets 14 in combination define a gas passageway to deliver fuel from the inlet coupling 34 to the jet 14. The jet 14 releases the fuel to the atmosphere where the fuel is combusted as an ornamental flame. The burner 10, including the end nipples 12, intermediate nipples 32, and jets 14, may be designed to deliver and burn any suitable type of gaseous fuel, including natural gas and propane.

As described further below, the footprint of the burner 10 provides, at least in part, the generation of the tall, dancing flame. Specifically, the relative location of the jets 14, at least in part, generates the tall, dancing flame. As an example, the elongation of the end nipples 12 and intermediate nipples 32 along straight axes, respectively, that are transverse to each other provides the footprint to locate the jets 14 for generation of the tall, dancing flame. The axes of the intermediate nipples 32 may be perpendicular to the axes of adjacent end nipples 12 to create the footprint of the burner 10 that provides, at least in part, the generation of the tall, dancing flame.

The burner 10 is brass. Specifically, the intermediate nipples 32, the end nipples 12, the jets 14, fittings 50, and the inlet coupling 34 are brass. The brass is corrosion resistant, sustainable, and rust-proof.

One example of the burner 10 is shown in FIG. 1 and another example of the burner 10 is shown in FIG. 7 . Common numerals are used to identify common features in the Figures. One example of the jet 14 is shown in FIGS. 4A-C and another example of the jet 14 is shown in FIGS. 5A-C and common numerals are used to identify common features in FIGS. 4A-5C. The example burners 10 shown in FIGS. 1 and 7 , by way of example, include the jet 14 of FIGS. 4A-C. Alternatively, the burners 10 in FIGS. 1 and 7 may include the jets 14 of FIGS. 5A-C.

The end nipples 12, intermediate nipples 32, and jets 14 may be arranged in any suitable shape to position the jets 14 and aim the jets 14 to generate the tall, dancing flame. One example arrangement is shown in FIG. 1 and another example arrangement is shown in FIG. 7 . In the example shown in FIG. 1 , the burner 10 includes four end nipples 12, six intermediate nipples 32, and ten jets 14. In the example shown in FIG. 7 , the burner 10 includes eight end nipples 12, eight intermediate nipples 32, and sixteen jets 14. In other examples, the burner 10 may include any suitable number of end nipples 12, intermediate nipples 32, and jets 14.

Inlet Coupling

With reference to FIGS. 1 and 7 , the inlet coupling 34 is connected to a fuel supply source (not shown) to deliver fuel to the burner 10. The inlet coupling 34 may be of any suitable shape. For example, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 7 , the inlet coupling 34 may be T-shaped. As another example, the inlet coupling 34 may be straight.

The inlet coupling 34 includes at least one threaded outlet (not numbered). For example, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 7 , the inlet coupling 34 includes two threaded outlets. In the examples shown in FIGS. 1 and 7 , intermediate nipples 32 are directly connected to the threaded outlets of the inlet coupling 34, i.e., with the lack of any intermediate component therebetween. For example, the intermediate nipple 32 includes a thread threadedly engaged with the threaded outlet. In such an example, “directly connected” includes examples in which thread sealant is disposed between the intermediate nipple 32 and the inlet coupling 34. The intermediate nipples 32 are supported by the inlet coupling 34. Specifically, a branch (not numbered) of intermediate nipples 32, end nipples 12, fittings 50, and jets 50 is supported by the inlet coupling 34. The branch may be cantilevered from the inlet coupling 34, i.e., with all weight of the branch supported at the inlet coupling 34. The examples in FIGS. 1 and 7 include two branches, i.e., one branch supported by each threaded outlet of the inlet coupling 34.

The inlet coupling 34 may be a standard coupling as known in industry. As an example, the inlet coupling 34 may be ¼-18 National Pipe Thread Taper (NPT) sized coupling available from any standard supplier. In such an example, the threaded outlet of the inlet coupling 34 have ¼-18 NPT threads and a standard corresponding sized and shaped body.

Intermediate Nipples

As set forth above, the burner 10 includes a plurality of the intermediate nipples 32. With reference to FIGS. 2A and 2C, each intermediate nipple 32 is elongated along a longitudinal axis Ai. In other words, the longest dimension of the intermediate nipple 32 is along the longitudinal axis Ai of the intermediate nipple 32. Specifically, the intermediate nipples 32 may be elongated in a common plane. During operation of the burner 10, the common plane may be horizontal.

With reference to FIGS. 2A and 2C, each intermediate nipple 32 includes two ends 36, 38 and a side 40 extending from one end 36 to the other end 38. The ends 36, 38 and the side 40 of the intermediate nipple 32 are unitary, i.e., a single, continuous piece of material with no seams, joints, fasteners, welds, or adhesives holding it together. Each intermediate nipple 32 may be formed as a unitary component, for example, by machining from a unitary blank, molding, forging, casting, etc. Non-unitary components, in contrast, are formed separately and subsequently assembled, e.g., by threaded engagement, welding, etc. In the example shown in the Figures, each intermediate nipple 32 is formed by machining a brass bar, e.g., to include a bore 42 and the other features of the intermediate nipple 32 described herein.

With reference to FIGS. 2A and 2C, the ends 36, 38 are spaced from each other along the longitudinal axis Ai of the intermediate nipple 32. Each intermediate nipple 32 may be straight from one end 36 to the other end 38. Specifically, the longitudinal axis Ai of the intermediate nipple 32 may be straight.

With continued reference to FIGS. 2A and 2C, both the first end 16 and the second end 18 are threaded, i.e., include threads (not numbered). The threads on the ends 36, 38 may be of the same type. For example, the threads on the ends 36, 38 may be ¼-18 NPT threads. The threads on the ends 36, 38 match the threads of the threaded outlet of inlet coupling 34 and threads on the fittings 50 (as described below).

With reference to FIGS. 2B and 2C, the bore 42 of the intermediate nipple 32 is elongated along the longitudinal axis Ai. The bore 42 extends through both ends 36, 38 of the intermediate nipple 32. In other words, both ends 36, 38 of the intermediate nipple 32 are open. When the burner 10 is assembled, the bore 42 creates the gas passageway extending through both ends 36, 38 of the intermediate nipple 32.

With continued reference to FIGS. 2B and 2C, each intermediate nipple 32 includes an outer diameter ODs and an inner diameter IDs. The inner diameter IDs defines the bore 42. The intermediate nipple 32 has a wall thickness from the inner diameter IDs to the outer diameter ODs. Specifically, the wall thickness of the intermediate nipple 32 is measured radially relative to the longitudinal axis Ai from the inner diameter IDs to the outer diameter ODs. The intermediate nipple 32 may be round, i.e., with a round outer diameter ODs and a round inner diameter IDs.

With reference to FIGS. 2A-2C, the intermediate nipple 32 may include a landing 44 disposed between the ends 36, 38 and spaced from the ends 36, 38. The landing 44 can be rotated to threadedly engage the threads on the ends 36, 38 of the intermediate nipple 32 with the inlet coupling 34 and/or the fittings 50. The landing 44 may be disposed closer to one end 36 of the intermediate nipple 32 than the other end 38 of the intermediate nipple 32. The landing 44 extends about the side 40 and has a width W1 along the longitudinal axis Ai of the intermediate nipple 32. The width W1 of the landing 44 of the intermediate nipple 32 may be between 0.4-0.5 inches. Specifically, in the example shown in the Figures, the width W1 of the landing 44 may be 0.45 inches.

The landing 44 includes circumferential surfaces meeting at vertices spaced circumferentially about the longitudinal axis Ai of the intermediate nipple 32, i.e., the circumferential surfaces are angled relative to each other. The circumferential surfaces extend across the width W1 of the landing 44, i.e., the circumferential surfaces extend along the longitudinal axis Ai of the intermediate nipple 32.

The circumferential surfaces may be engaged by a tool to transfer torque from the tool to the intermediate nipple 32 for engaging the threads on the ends 36, 38 of the intermediate nipple 32 with the inlet coupling 34 and/or the fittings 50. Specifically, each intermediate nipple 32 may include flats 46 at the landing 44 (i.e., the circumferential surfaces may be flats 46). The flats 46 are planar. The flats 46 each extend from one vertex to another vertex. The landing 44 may include six flats 46 each meeting at the vertices, i.e., may be hexagonal, as shown in the examples in the Figures. As other examples, the landing 44 may include any suitable number of flats 46 that may meet at vertices or may be separated by round surfaces. As an example, the landing 44 may include two flats 46 parallel to each other and spaced from each other by two round surfaces therebetween.

With reference to FIGS. 2A-2C, each intermediate nipple 32 includes a threaded hole 48 extending through the side 40 to the bore 42 for receiving one of the jets 14. The threaded holes 48 include threads. The threads match the threads of the threaded portion 26 of the jet 14. For example, the threads of the threaded holes 48 of the intermediate nipple 32 may be 1/16-27 NPT threads.

The threaded hole 48 of each intermediate nipple 32 may be disposed at any suitable position along the respective intermediate nipple 32. For example, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 7 , the threaded holes 48 of the intermediate nipples 32 may be disposed between one end 36 and the landing 44 of the intermediate nipple 32. The threaded holes 48 may be in a same or different position on each respective intermediate nipple 32.

The burner 10 may include any suitable number of intermediate nipples 32. The example in FIG. 1 has six intermediate nipples 32 and the example in FIG. 7 has ten intermediate nipples 32. A corresponding number of the intermediate nipples 32 (i.e., one for each threaded hole of the inlet coupling 34) are directly connected to the inlet coupling 34, i.e., with the lack of any intermediate component therebetween. In other words, the inlet coupling 34 may be a hub that feeds several intermediate nipples 32 extending in different directions, e.g., as shown in the examples in FIGS. 1 and 7 . For example, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 7 , the burner 10 includes two intermediate nipples 32 directly connected to the inlet coupling 34, e.g., by threaded engagement with the threaded outlet of the inlet coupling 34. In such an example, “directly connected” includes examples in which thread sealant is disposed between the intermediate nipple 32 s and the inlet coupling 34. In the example including the two intermediate nipples 32 connected to the inlet coupling 34, the intermediate nipples 32 may be coaxial, i.e., elongated along a common axis A, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 7 . The intermediate nipples 32 are supported by the inlet coupling 34.

Each intermediate nipple 32 has a length Li along the longitudinal axis Ai of the intermediate nipple 32. The length Li extends from one end 36 to the other end 38, as shown in FIG. 2A. The intermediate nipples 32 may have common lengths or may have different lengths. In the example shown in FIG. 1 , the intermediate nipples 32 each have the same length Li. In the example shown in FIG. 7 , the burner 10 includes intermediate nipples 32 of two different lengths Li, specifically long intermediate nipples (also identified with reference numeral 66) and short intermediate nipples (also identified with reference numeral 68). In other words, the length Li of the long intermediate nipples 66 is larger than the length Li of the short intermediate nipples 68. In other examples, the burner 10 may include intermediate nipples 32 of three or more lengths.

Fittings

With reference to FIGS. 1 and 7 , the burner 10 includes a plurality of the fittings 50. The burner 10 includes a same number of fittings 50 as intermediate nipples 32. In the example shown in FIG. 1 , the burner 10 includes six fittings 50. In the example shown in FIG. 7 , the burner 10 includes eight fittings 50. The intermediate nipples 32 and the end nipples 12 are connected to each other via the fittings 50. In other words, the gas passageway extends through the fittings 50.

The fittings 50 are directly connected to the respective end nipples 12 and intermediate nipples 32, i.e., with the lack of any intermediate component therebetween. In such an example, “directly connected” includes examples in which thread sealant is dispose between the fitting 50 and the respective end nipple 12 and intermediate nipple 32.

The fittings 50 may have any suitable shape. For example, the fittings 50 may be T-shaped, elbow-shaped, cross-shaped, etc. Each fitting 50 includes at least two threaded holes (not numbered). The fittings 50 may be a standard fitting as known in industry. The fittings 50 may be the same size as the inlet coupling 34. For example, the fitting may be ¼-18 National NPT sized fitting available from any standard supplier. In such an example, the threaded holes of the fitting 50 have ¼-18 NPT threads and a standard corresponding sized and shaped body. The fittings 50 are brass, as set forth above. Additionally, one or more fittings 50 may include a threaded opening (not shown) for receiving a jet 14.

End Nipples

With reference to FIGS. 1 and 7 , each end nipple 12 is connected to one fitting 50. For example, each end nipple 12 is threadedly engaged with one respective fitting 50. Each end nipple 12 is supported by the respective fitting 50. Specifically, each end nipple 12 is cantilevered from the respective fitting 50.

With reference to FIGS. 3A and 3C, each end nipple 12 is elongated along a longitudinal axis An. In other words, the longest dimension of the end nipple 12 is along the longitudinal axis An of the end nipple 12. The end nipples 12 may be elongated in a common plane. Specifically, the end nipples 12 and the intermediate nipples 32 may be elongated in a common plane. As describe above, during operation of the burner 10, the common plane may be horizontal.

With continued reference to FIGS. 3A and 3C, each end nipple 12 includes a first end 16, a second end 18, and a wall 20 extending from the first end 16 to the second end 18, as set forth above. The first end 16, second end 18, and the wall 20 of the end nipple 12 are unitary, i.e., a single, continuous piece of material with no seams, joints, fasteners, welds, or adhesives holding it together. Each end nipple 12 may be formed as a unitary component, for example, by machining from a unitary blank, molding, forging, casting, etc. In the example shown in the Figures, each end nipple 12 is formed by machining a brass bar, e.g., to include the gas passageway and the other features of the end nipple 12 described herein.

The first end 16 and the second end 18 of the end nipple 12 are spaced from each other along the longitudinal axis An of the end nipple 12. Each end nipple 12 may be straight from the first end 16 to the second end 18. Specifically, the longitudinal axis An of the end nipple 12 may be straight. As set forth above, the end nipple 12 may be cantilevered from the fitting 50. Specifically, the second end 18 is supported only by the connection of the first end 16 to the fitting 50.

With continued reference to FIGS. 3A and 3C, the first end 16 is threaded, i.e., includes threads. The threads threadedly engage one respective fitting 50. That is, the threads of each end nipple 12 engage one respective threaded hole of one respective fitting 50. The threads of the first end 16 match the threads of the threaded holes of the fittings 50. For example, the threads of the first end 16 may be ¼-18 NPT threads.

With reference to FIG. 3C, the bore 22 of the end nipple 12 is elongated along the longitudinal axis An. The bore 22 extends through the first end 16 of the end nipple 12 to the second end 18 of the end nipple 12. The first end 16 is open and the second end 18 is closed. In other words, the bore 22 extends through the first end 16 of the end nipple 12 and is plugged at the second end 18 of the end nipple 12. The bore 22 of the end nipple 12 is elongated along the longitudinal axis An of the end nipple 12.

With continued reference to FIG. 3C, each end nipple 12, i.e., the wall 20, includes an outer diameter ODw and an inner diameter IDw. The inner diameter IDw defines the bore 22. The end nipple 32 has a wall thickness from the inner diameter IDw to the outer diameter ODw. Specifically, the wall thickness of the end nipple 12 is measured radially relative to the longitudinal axis An from the inner diameter IDw to the outer diameter ODw. The end nipple 32 may be round, i.e., with a round outer diameter ODw and a round inner diameter IDw. The outer diameter ODw of the end nipple 12 may be the same as the outer diameter ODs of the intermediate nipple 32, and the inner diameter IDw of the end nipple 12 may be the same as the inner diameter IDs of the intermediate nipple 32.

With continued reference to FIGS. 3A and 3C, the end nipple 12 includes a head 52 at the second end 18. The head 52 can be rotated to threadedly engage the threads of the first end 16 with the respective fitting 50. The head 52 has a width Wh extending along the longitudinal axis An of the end nipple 12, e.g., from the second end 18 towards the first end 16. The width Wh of the head 52 of the end nipple 12 may be between 0.9-1.1 inches. For example, the width Wh of the head 52 may be 1.0 inches.

With reference to FIG. 3B, the head 52 includes circumferential surfaces meeting at vertices spaced circumferentially about the longitudinal axis An of the end nipple 12, i.e., the circumferential surfaces are angled relative to each other. The circumferential surfaces extend across the width Wh of the head 52, i.e., the circumferential surfaces extend along the longitudinal axis An of the end nipple 12.

The circumferential surfaces may be engaged by a tool to transfer torque from the tool to the end nipple 12 for engaging the threads of the first end 16 with a fitting 50. Specifically, each end nipple 12 may include flats 46 at the head 52 (i.e., the circumferential surfaces may be flats 46). The flats 46 are planar. The flats 46 each extend from one vertex to another vertex. The head 52 may include six flats 46 each meeting at the vertices, i.e., may be hexagonal, as shown in the examples in the Figures. As other examples, the head 52 may include any suitable number of flats 46 that may meet at vertices or may be separated by round surfaces. As an example, the head 52 may include two flats parallel to each other and spaced from each other by two round surfaces therebetween.

With reference to FIGS. 3A-3C, each end nipple 12 includes a threaded hole 24 extending through the wall 20 to the bore 22 for receiving one of the jets 14. The threaded hole 24 includes threads. The threads match the threads of the threaded portion 26 of the jet 14. For example, the threads of the threaded hole 24 may be 1/16-27 NPT threads. In other words, the threads of the threaded hole 24 of the end nipple 12 match the threads of the threaded hole 48 of the intermediate nipple 32.

The threaded hole 24 may be disposed at any suitable position along the end nipple 12. For example, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 7 , the threaded hole 24 of each end nipple 12 may be disposed on the head 52 of the end nipple 12. In other words, the threaded hole 24 may extend through one of the flats 46 to the bore 22. As another example, the threaded hole 24 may be disposed between the head 52 and the first end 16 of the end nipple 12. The threaded hole 24 may be in a same or different position on each end nipple 12.

Each end nipple 12 has a length Ln along the longitudinal axis An of the end nipple 12. The length Ln extends from the first end 16 to the second end 18 of the end nipple 12, as shown in FIG. 3A. The end nipples 12 may have any suitable length Ln. For example, each end nipple 12 may have the same length Ln, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 7 . As another example, at least one end nipple 12 may have a different length Ln than another end nipple 12.

Jets

With reference to FIGS. 1 and 7 , the burner 10 includes a plurality of jets 14. As set forth above, one example of the jet 14 is shown in FIGS. 4A-C and another example of the jet is shown in FIGS. 5A-C.

The burner 10 may include any suitable number of jets 14 connected to the end nipples 12 and the intermediate nipples 32. Each end nipple 12 supports at least one jet 14. In the example shown in the Figures, each end nipple 12 and each intermediate nipple 32 support one jet 14. As other examples, each end nipple 12 may support any suitable number of jets 14, i.e., one or more, and each intermediate nipple 32 may support zero or any suitable number of jets 14. As another example, jets 14 may be supported by the fittings 50.

Each jet 14 is connected to the respective end nipple 12, intermediate nipple 32, or fitting 50. For example, each jet 14 is threadedly engaged with the respective end nipple 12, intermediate nipple 32, or fitting 50. In other words, each jet 14 is formed separately from and subsequently attached to the respective end nipple 12, intermediate nipple 32, or fitting 50.

The jet 14 protrudes outwardly from the respective end nipple 12, intermediate nipple 32, or fitting 50. With reference to FIGS. 4A and 5A, each jet 14 is elongated along a longitudinal axis Aj. In other words, the longest dimension of the jet 14 is along the longitudinal axis Aj of the jet 14. Each jet 14 includes a proximate end 54 and a fuel combustion outlet 28 spaced from each other along the longitudinal axis Aj of the jet 14. The jet 14 is cantilevered from the end nipple 12, intermediate nipple 32, or fitting 50, i.e., the fuel combustion outlet 28 is supported only by the connection of the jet 14 to the respective end nipple 12, intermediate nipple 32, or fitting 50. Each jet 14 may be straight from the proximate end 54 to the fuel combustion outlet 28. Specifically, the longitudinal axis Aj of the jet 14 may be straight.

The jets 14 may be aimed in any suitable direction to generate the tall, dancing flame. The longitudinal axis Aj of the jet 14 extends upwardly from the common plane at a non-right angle. Accordingly, the flame from all jets 14 combine into a single flame that is generally conical.

With reference to FIGS. 4A and 5A, each jet 14 includes a threaded portion 26 and a barrel 30, as set forth above. The threaded portion 26 and the barrel 30 are unitary, i.e., a single, continuous piece of material with no seams, joints, fasteners, welds, or adhesives holding it together. Each jet 14 may be formed as a unitary component, for example, by machining from a unitary blank, molding, forging, casting, etc. In the example shown in the Figures, each jet 14 is formed by machining a brass bar, e.g., to include the gas passageway and the other features of the jet 14 described herein.

With reference to FIGS. 4A, 4C, 5A, and 5C, the threaded portion 26 extends from the proximate end 54 towards the fuel combustion outlet 28 along the longitudinal axis Aj of the jet 14. The threaded portion 26 is threaded, and specifically, includes male threads. The threads of the threaded portion 26 may have any suitable size. The threads of the threaded portion 26 are the same size as the threads of the threaded holes 24, 48 of the end nipples 12 and intermediate nipples 32. For example, the threads of the threaded portion 26 may be 1/16-27 NPT threads.

The threaded portion 26 includes a length Lt extending along the longitudinal axis Aj of the jet 14. The length Lt extends from the proximate end 54 towards the fuel combustion outlet 28, as shown in FIGS. 4C and 5C. The threaded portion 26 may extend into the bore 22 of the end nipple 12 when the jet 14 is connected to the end nipple 12, and into the bore 42 of the intermediate nipple 32 when the jet 14 is connected to the intermediate nipple 32, as shown in FIGS. 6A and 6B.

The jets 14 are in communication with the bores 22, 42 of the end nipples 12 and the intermediate nipples 32. With reference to FIGS. 4C and 5C, the jet 14 includes an inlet bore 56 extending through the threaded portion 26 towards the fuel combustion outlet 28 and a bore 60 extending from the inlet bore 56 through the fuel combustion outlet 28. The inlet bore 56 and the bore 60 are open to each other. A diameter Di of the inlet bore 56 may be constant through the threaded portion 26. For example, the diameter Di of the inlet bore 56 may be constant from the proximate end 54 to the bore 60. The proximate end 54 may be chamfered at the inlet bore 56. The inlet bore 56 is in communication with the bores 22, 42 of the respective end nipples 12 or intermediate nipples 32.

The barrel 30 extends from the fuel combustion outlet 28 towards the threaded portion 26. As one example, as shown in FIGS. 4A and 4C, the barrel 30 is spaced from the threaded portion 26. In such an example, the jet 14 includes a tapering portion 58 between the barrel 30 and the threaded portion 26. The tapering portion 58 extends from the barrel 30 to the threaded portion 26. The tapering portion 58 includes an outer diameter that tapers from the barrel 30 to the threaded portion 26. That is, the outer diameter of the tapering portion 58 decreases along the longitudinal axis Aj of the jet 14 from the barrel 30 to the threaded portion 26. The tapering portion 58 may have any suitable length along the longitudinal axis Aj of the jet 14. The tapering portion 58 may have any suitable full taper angle. As another example, as shown in FIGS. 5A and 5C, the barrel 30 extends to the threaded portion 26.

The barrel 30 extends annularly about the longitudinal axis Aj of the jet 14. The barrel 30 defines the bore 60 extending along the longitudinal axis Aj of the jet 14. A diameter Db of the bore 60, e.g., at the fuel combustion outlet 28, is larger than the diameter Di of the inlet bore 56, as shown in FIGS. 4B, 4C, 5B and 5C. The diameter Db of the bore 60 may taper to the diameter Di of the inlet bore 56 at a countersink 70 from the bore 60 to the inlet bore 56. The diameter Db of the bore 60 may be constant from the fuel combustion outlet 28 to the countersink 70 and the diameter Di of the inlet bore 56 may be constant from the countersink 70 to the proximate end 54. The diameter Db of the bore 60 may be constant from the fuel combustion outlet 28 to the tapering portion 58 and the diameter Di of the inlet bore 56 may be constant from the tapering portion 58 through the threaded portion 26.

The barrel 30 has an outer diameter ODb, as set forth above. The outer diameter ODb of the barrel 30 may be constant along the longitudinal axis Aj of the jet 14. For example, as shown in FIGS. 4A and 4C, the outer diameter ODb of the barrel 30 is constant from the fuel combustion outlet 28 to the tapering portion 58. In such an example, the outer diameter ODb of the barrel 30 is larger than an outer diameter of the threaded portion 26. As another example, as shown in FIGS. 5A and 5C, the outer diameter ODb of the barrel 30 is constant from the fuel combustion outlet 28 to the threaded portion 26. In such an example, the outer diameter ODb of the barrel 30 is the same as the outer diameter of the threaded portion 26. The barrel 30 includes a wall thickness extending radially about the longitudinal axis Aj of the jet 14.

The jet 14 includes a head 62 at the fuel combustion outlet 28, as shown in FIGS. 4A and 5A. The head 62 can be rotated to threadedly engage the threads with the end nipple 12, the intermediate nipple 32, or the fitting 50. The head 62 has a width Wb extending along the longitudinal axis Aj of the jet 14, e.g., from the fuel combustion outlet 28 towards the threaded portion 26. The width Wb of the head 62 of the jet 14 is between 0.2-0.3 inches. For example, the width Wb of the head 62 may be 0.25 inches.

With reference to FIGS. 4A, 4B, 5A, and 5B, the head 62 includes circumferential surfaces meeting at vertices spaced circumferentially about the longitudinal axis Aj of the jet 14, i.e., the circumferential surfaces are angled relative to each other. The circumferential surfaces extend across the width Wb of the head 62, i.e., the circumferential surfaces extend along the longitudinal axis Aj of the jet 14.

The circumferential surfaces may be engaged by a tool to transfer torque from the tool to the jet 14 for engaging the threads of the threaded portion 26 with the end nipple 12, the intermediate nipple 32, or the fitting 50. Specifically, each jet 14 may include flats 46 at the head 62 (i.e., the circumferential surfaces may be flats 46). The flats 46 are planar. The flats 46 each extend from one vertex to another vertex. The head 62 may include six flats 46 each meeting at the vertices, i.e., may be hexagonal, as shown in the examples in the Figures. As other examples, the head 62 may include any suitable number of flats 46 that may meet at vertices or may be separated by round surfaces. As an example, the head 62 may include two flats 46 parallel to each other and spaced from each other by two round surfaces therebetween.

With reference to FIG. 4C, the jet 14 is designed to resist breakage during installation (e.g., during application of torque to the head 62 of the jet 14 to tighten the threaded engagement of the jet 14 to the threaded hole 24, 48) and during handling (including potential dropping of the jet 14). As one example, the bore 60 terminates in the barrel 30. Specifically, the end of the bore 60 in the barrel 30, e.g., at the countersink 70, is aligned along the longitudinal axis Aj of the jet 14 between the tapering portion 58 and the fuel combustion outlet 28. Such a configuration provides a wall thickness suitable to withstand torque applied to the head 62 of the jet 14 during installation and handling. In examples including the countersink 70, the countersink 70 terminates at one end aligned along the longitudinal axis Aj of the jet 14 with the barrel 30 and terminates at another end aligned along the longitudinal axis Aj of the jet 14 with the tapering portion 58. The inlet bore 56 terminates at an end aligned along the longitudinal axis Aj of the jet 14 with the tapering portion 58. The countersink 70 between the bore 60 and the inlet bore 56 provides sufficient wall thickness for installation and handling of the jet 14.

The barrel 30 has a length Lb along the longitudinal axis Aj of the jet 14. The length Lb of the barrel 30 extends from the fuel combustion outlet 28 towards the threaded portion 26. As shown in FIGS. 4A and 4C, the length Lb of the barrel 30 extends from the fuel combustion outlet 28 to the tapering portion 58. As shown in FIGS. 5A and 5C, the length Lb of the barrel 30 extends from the fuel combustion outlet 28 to the threaded portion 26. The barrel 30 may have any suitable length.

The barrel 30 includes at least one oxygen hole 64 extending through the barrel 30 to the bore 60 of the jet 14. For example, the barrel 30 includes one oxygen hole 64 when the fuel is natural gas, as shown in FIGS. 4A and 4C. As another example, the barrel 30 includes two oxygen holes 64 when the fuel is propane. In such an example, the two oxygen holes 64 may be spaced diametrically from each other, as shown in FIGS. 5A and 5C.

The oxygen hole 64 may be disposed at any suitable position along the barrel 30. That is, the oxygen hole 64 may be disposed between the threaded portion 26 and the fuel combustion outlet 28. For example, the oxygen hole 64 may be disposed between the threaded portion 26 and the head 62 of the barrel 30. As another example, the oxygen hole 64 may be disposed on the head 62 of the barrel 30. In such an example, the oxygen hole 64 may extend through one flat of the head 62. The oxygen hole 64 includes a diameter Do. The position and the diameter Do of the oxygen hole 64 may be selected to achieve the yellow flame.

Each jet 14 has a length Lj along the longitudinal axis Aj of the jet 14. The length Lj extends from the proximate end 54 to the fuel combustion outlet 28 of the jet 14. The jets 14 may have any suitable length. For example, each jet 14 may have the same length Lj.

Burner

The intermediate nipples 32, the end nipples 12, and the jets 14 may be specially manufactured for the burner 10 disclosed herein. As set forth above, in the example shown in the Figures, the end nipples 12, intermediate nipples 32, and jets 14 are formed by machining a brass bar, i.e., to include the bores 22, 42, 60 and the other features. Specifically, the intermediate nipples 32, end nipples 12, and jets 14 may be designed and manufactured to have the size and shape to generate the tall, dancing flame having yellow and/or orange color, as described above. The designs shown in the Figures and the dimensions disclosed herein generate the tall, dancing flame having yellow and/or orange color.

The lengths Li of each intermediate nipples 32 and the lengths Ln of each end nipple 12 create the footprint of the burner 10 that provides, at least in part, the generation of the tall, dancing flame. The length Li of each intermediate nipple 32 may be between 5.5-6.5 inches. For example, In the example shown in FIG. 1 , the length Li of each intermediate nipple 32 may be 6 inches. In the example shown in FIG. 7 , the long intermediate nipples 66 may have a length Li between 5.5-6.5 inches and the short intermediate nipples 68 may have a length between 2-3 inches. Specifically, in the example shown in FIG. 7 , the length Li of the long intermediate nipples 66 may be 6 inches, and the length Li of the short intermediate nipples 68 may be 2.375 inches.

In the example shown in FIG. 1 , the length Ln of each end nipple 12 may be between 4 and 5 inches. For example, the length Ln of each end nipple 12 may be 4.5 inches. In the example shown in FIG. 7 , the length Ln of each end nipple 12 is between 2 and 3 inches. For example, the length Ln of each end nipple 12 may be 2.375 inches.

As set forth above, the outer diameter ODw of the end nipple 12 may be the same as the outer diameter ODs of the intermediate nipple 32, and the inner diameter IDw of the end nipple 12 may be the same as the inner diameter IDs of the intermediate nipple 32. The outer diameters ODw, ODs of the intermediate nipple 32 and the end nipple 12 are between 0.5-0.6 inches. For example, the outer diameters ODw, ODs of the intermediate nipple 32 and the end nipple 12 may be 0.54 inches. The inner diameters IDw, IDs of the intermediate nipple 32 and the end nipple 12 are between 0.3-0.4 inches. For example, the inner diameters IDw, IDs of the intermediate nipple 32 and the end nipple 12 may be 0.375 inches. The wall thickness of each of the intermediate nipples 32 and the end nipples 12 may be between 0.15-0.18 inches. This inner diameter IDw, IDs provides suitable gas flow to generate the tall, dancing flame having yellow and/or orange color, and this outer diameter, inner diameter, and wall thickness advantageously minimizes the material, i.e., brass, of the end nipple 12 and intermediate nipple 32 to reduce material cost in manufacturing.

As set forth above, the threads of the threaded portion 26 may be 1/16-27 NPT threads. In such an example, the threaded portion 26 may have an outside diameter of 0.3125 inches. These dimensions of the threaded portion 26 encourage proper seating of the threaded portion 26 against the respective end nipple 12 or the intermediate nipple 32 of the dimensions described above (e.g., 0.54 inch outer diameter; 0.375 inch inner diameter; and 0.15-0.18 inch wall thickness) when threadedly engaged with the threaded hole 24, 48. The diameter Di of the inlet bore 56 may be between 0.04-0.08 inches. For example, the diameter Di of the inlet bore 56 may be 0.062 inches.

In the example shown in FIGS. 4A-C, the tapering portion 58 allows for proper seating of the threaded portion 26 against the respective end nipple 12 or intermediate nipple 32; allows for sufficient gas flow to generate the tall, dancing flame having yellow and/or orange color; and provides robustness to resist breakage during installation and handling. Specifically, the tapering portion 58 provides material for sufficient wall thickness at the end of the bore 60, e.g., at the countersink 70. For example, as described above, the end of the bore 60 is aligned along the longitudinal axis Aj of the jet 14 between the tapering portion 58 and the fuel combustion outlet 28. Such a configuration provides a wall thickness suitable to withstand torque applied to the head 62 of the jet 14 during installation and handling.

In addition, with continued reference to FIGS. 4A-C, the outer diameter ODb of the barrel 30 may be between 0.3-0.5 inches. For example, the outer diameter ODb of the barrel 30 may be 0.4 inches. This outer diameter ODb allows for suitable gas flow through the jet 14 to generate the tall, dancing flame having the yellow and/or orange color. Specifically, the diameter Db of the bore 60 at the fuel combustion outlet 28 may be between 0.2-0.3 inches. For example, the diameter Db of the bore 60 at the fuel combustion outlet 28 may be 0.25 inches. The wall thickness of the barrel 30 may be between 0.1-0.2 inches. For example, the wall thickness of the barrel 30 may be 0.15 inches.

With continued reference to FIG. 4C, the size of the diameter Db of the bore 60 may be between 75%-85% the size of the outer diameter of the threaded portion 26. In the example shown in FIG. 4C, the size of the diameter Db of the bore 60 is 80% the size of the outer diameter of the threaded portion 26. For example, as described above, the diameter Db of the bore 60 may be 0.25 inches ant the outer diameter of the threaded portion 26 may be 0.3125 inches. This allows for sufficient gas flow from the fuel combustion outlet 28 to generate the tall, dancing flame having the yellow and/or orange color and a proper seating of the threaded portion 26 against the respective end nipple 12 or the intermediate nipple 32 while still being robust to resist breakage during installation and handling.

With continued reference to FIG. 4C, the wall thickness of the tapering portion 58 increases from the barrel 30 to the threaded portion 26. This increases the robustness of the jet 14 to resist breakage during installation and handling. The diverging angles of the countersink 70 and the tapering portion 58 creates the increasing wall thickness from the barrel 30 to the threaded portion 26, as shown in FIG. 4C.

With reference to FIGS. 5A-C, the jet 14 may have a constant outer diameter from the proximate end 54 to the fuel combustion outlet 28. For example, the outer diameter of the jet 14 in FIGS. 5A-C may be 0.25-0.35 inches. As one example, the outer diameter of the jet 14 in FIGS. 5A-C may be 0.3125 inches.

The diameter Do of the oxygen hole 64 may be between 0.02-0.1 inches. For example, the diameter Do of the oxygen hole 64 may be 0.086 inches. This diameter Do of the oxygen hole 64 provides quiet operation of the burner 10.

The length Lj of each jet 14 is between 0.9-1.1 inches. For example, the length Lj of each jet 14 may be 1.0 inches. The length Lt of the threaded portion 26 is between 0.2-0.3 inches. For example, the length Lt may be 0.26 inches. This length Lj minimizes the material usage in manufacturing the jet 14 while allowing for sufficient gas flow from the fuel combustion outlet 28 to generate the tall, dancing flame having the yellow and/or orange color.

In the example shown in FIGS. 4A-4C and 6A, the length Lb of the barrel 30 is between 0.6-0.7 inches. For example, the length Lb of the barrel 30 may be 0.64 inches. Additionally, the tapering portion 58 extends, e.g., 0.1 inches, from the barrel 30 to the threaded portion 26. Further, the tapering portion 58 may have a full taper angle of 60 degrees.

In the example, shown in FIGS. 5A-5C and 6B, the length Lb of the barrel is between 0.73-0.75 inches. For example, the length Lb of the barrel 30 may be 0.74 inches.

The disclosure has been described in an illustrative manner, and it is to be understood that the terminology which has been used is intended to be in the nature of words of description rather than of limitation. Many modifications and variations of the present disclosure are possible in light of the above teachings, and the disclosure may be practiced otherwise than as specifically described. 

1. A burner comprising: a plurality of end nipples; at least one jet supported by and protruding outwardly from each end nipple, the end nipples and the jets are brass; each end nipple including a first end that is threaded and a second end that is closed; each end nipple including a wall extending from the first end to the second end and including a bore extending through the first end to the second end, each end nipple including a threaded hole extending through the wall to the bore; the first end of the end nipple, the second end of the end nipple, and the wall of the end nipple being unitary; each jet including a threaded portion threadedly engaged with the threaded hole and a fuel combustion outlet spaced from the threaded portion; each jet including a barrel extending from the fuel combustion outlet toward the threaded portion, the barrel having a larger outer diameter than the threaded portion; each jet including a tapering portion extending from the threaded portion to the barrel, an outer diameter of the tapering portion tapering from the barrel to the threaded portion; and a wall thickness of the tapering portion increasing from the barrel to the threaded portion.
 2. (canceled)
 3. (canceled)
 4. The burner of claim 1, wherein the tapering portion has a full taper angle, the full taper angle is 60 degrees.
 5. The burner of claim 1, wherein the threaded portion and the barrel each have a length along a longitudinal axis of the jet, the length of the threaded portion is between 0.2-0.3 inches and the length of the barrel is between 0.6-0.7 inches.
 6. The burner of claim 1, wherein each jet includes a length along a longitudinal axis of the jet, the length is between 0.9-1.1 inches.
 7. The burner of claim 6, wherein the outer diameter of the barrel is between 0.3-0.5 inches.
 8. The burner of claim 6, wherein the threaded portion has 1/16-27 National Pipe Thread Taper (NPT) threads.
 9. The burner of claim 1, wherein each jet defines a bore, the size of the diameter of the bore being between 75%-85% the size of the outer diameter of the threaded portion.
 10. The burner of claim 1, wherein each jet defines a bore extending through the fuel combustion outlet and an inlet bore extending through the threaded portion, a diameter of the bore is larger than a diameter of the inlet bore.
 11. The burner of claim 10, wherein an end of the bore of the jet is aligned along a longitudinal axis of the jet between the tapering portion and the fuel combustion outlet.
 12. The burner of claim 11, wherein each jet includes a countersink extending from the bore of the jet to the inlet bore, the countersink terminating at the inlet bore at an end of the countersink aligned with the tapering portion along the longitudinal axis of the jet.
 13. (canceled)
 14. (canceled)
 15. (canceled)
 16. (canceled)
 17. The burner of claim 10, wherein the diameter of the bore is constant from the fuel combustion outlet to the tapering portion and the diameter of the inlet bore is constant from the tapering portion through the threaded portion.
 18. (canceled)
 19. The burner of claim 1, wherein the barrel includes a wall extending from the fuel combustion outlet towards the threaded portion and an oxygen hole extending through the wall to the bore, the oxygen hole being between the threaded portion and the fuel combustion opening.
 20. (canceled)
 21. (canceled)
 22. (canceled)
 23. (canceled)
 24. (canceled)
 25. The burner of claim 1, wherein each end nipple has flats at the second end of the end nipple, the flats being arranged circumferentially about the second end of the end nipple.
 26. The burner of claim 1, wherein the first end of each end nipple has ¼-18 National Pipe Thread Taper (NPT) threads.
 27. The burner of claim 1, wherein each end nipple has an outer diameter, the outer diameter of the end nipple is between 0.5-0.6 inches.
 28. The burner of claim 27, wherein the bore of each end nipple has a diameter, the diameter of the bore is between 0.3-0.4 inches.
 29. The burner of claim 12, wherein the countersink terminates at the bore at an end of the countersink aligned with the barrel along the longitudinal axis of the jet.
 30. A burner comprising: a plurality of end nipples; at least one jet supported by and protruding outwardly from each end nipple, the end nipples and the jets are brass; each end nipple including a first end that is threaded and a second end that is closed; each end nipple including a wall extending from the first end to the second end and including a bore extending through the first end to the second end, each end nipple including a threaded hole extending through the wall to the bore; each jet including a threaded portion threadedly engaged with the threaded hole and a fuel combustion outlet spaced from the threaded portion; each jet including a barrel extending from the fuel combustion outlet toward the threaded portion, the barrel having a larger outer diameter than the threaded portion; each jet including a tapering portion extending from the threaded portion to the barrel, an outer diameter of the tapering portion tapering from the barrel to the threaded portion; and a wall thickness of the tapering portion increasing from the barrel to the threaded portion.
 31. The burner of claim 30, wherein each jet defines a bore extending through the fuel combustion outlet and an inlet bore extending through the threaded portion, a diameter of the bore is larger than a diameter of the inlet bore.
 32. The burner of claim 31, wherein an end of the bore of the jet is aligned along a longitudinal axis of the jet between the tapering portion and the fuel combustion outlet.
 33. The burner of claim 32, wherein each jet includes a countersink extending from the bore of the jet to the inlet bore, the countersink terminating at an end aligned with the tapering portion along longitudinal axis of the jet. 